The Drunken Chef Private Dining - Affordable Home Private Dining with Comforting Chinese Classics

The Drunken Chef by Sherine Chua is one of the newest additions to the home private dining scene, offering a Chinese cuisine menu at $98 per pax, making it one of the most affordable options currently available. The experience focuses on comforting, well-executed dishes that feel familiar yet thoughtfully prepared, making it ideal for intimate gatherings and family-style celebrations.

We started with the Marinated Tomatoes, a refreshing opener that delivered a pleasant balance of sweetness and tanginess. Light and appetising, it gently whetted our appetite and set the tone nicely for the upcoming feast.

Braised Beef Shin & Tripe 4.5/5

One of the highlights was the Braised Beef Shin & Tripe. Both components were well infused with the rich braising sauce. The beef shin was tender and flavourful, while the tripe retained a delightful chewy bite. A gentle hint of spiciness helped lift the overall flavour profile, making this a satisfying and robust dish to start the meal.

Drunken Chicken 4/5

The Drunken Chicken was tender and well-cooked, though it felt slightly restrained in terms of the Chinese wine aroma and flavour. A more generous hand with the alcohol could have elevated the dish further, giving it the signature fragrance that drunken chicken lovers would expect.

Kam Heong Clams 5/5

The Kam Heong Clams stood out with their bold aromatics. The sweet and juicy clams were beautifully coated in a fragrant, punchy sauce that paired exceptionally well with rice. The sauce was so addictive that it was impossible not to drizzle it generously over our bowls, savouring every last drop.

Sio Bak 4.8/5

A clear crowd favourite at the table was the Sio Bak. It had been a while since I encountered this style of roast pork, featuring an addictive, crispy, almost biscuity skin. It immediately brought to mind the roasting technique of 88 Hong Kong Roast Meat Specialist, delivering both nostalgia and satisfaction with every bite.

Cai Poh Steamed Snapper 4.5/5

The Cai Poh Steamed Snapper was simply and skilfully executed. Steamed to perfection, the fish remained moist and tender, while the preserved radish and soy sauce enhanced and highlighted the natural sweetness of the fish meat without overpowering it.

Kai Shui Bai Cai 4.2/5

At first glance, the Kai Shui Bai Cai may look humble and unassuming, but simple dishes often require the most finesse. This was done excellently — clean, light, and delicious, allowing the vegetable's natural sweetness to shine through.

Seafood Pao Fan 4.5/5

The undeniable highlight of the dinner was the Seafood Pao Fan. Even before it arrived at the table, the rich crustacean aroma wafted out from the kitchen. Once served, the fragrance intensified, drawing everyone in. The robust seafood flavours paired with fluffy rice created a dish that was both hearty and deeply comforting, making it a memorable centrepiece of the meal.

Gui Hua Gao 4.2/5

To end on a sweet note, we were served Gui Hua Gao (Osmanthus Jelly). The gentle sweetness and floral fragrance of osmanthus were complemented by crunchy chestnuts and wolfberries, offering a light yet satisfying conclusion to the meal.

Overall, The Drunken Chef by Sherine Chua delivers a value-driven home private dining experience with comforting Chinese dishes that resonate with warmth and familiarity. At $98 per pax, it presents an accessible entry point into the private dining scene, especially for those seeking honest flavours and a hearty communal dining experience.


The Drunken Chef Private Dining
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Nearest MRT: Buona Vista (CC, EW Line)

Hee Hee Hee Steamed Fish & Seafood (喜喜蒸鱼海鲜) @ Clementi Ave 3 - Affordable Steamed Seafood at Clementi

Hee Hee Hee Steamed Fish & Seafood (喜喜蒸鱼海鲜), known for its affordable and fresh seafood offerings, has expanded with a new outlet at Clementi Ave 3. Specialising in steamed seafood at wallet-friendly prices, this humble hawker stall delivers simple yet satisfying dishes.

Golden Promfret 3.8/5

We opted for the Golden Pomfret ($12), which was topped with minced garlic and ginger and drizzled with soy sauce before being steamed to perfection. The cooking method allowed the fish's natural sweetness to shine through. While the dish was enjoyable, a more premium, fragrant soy sauce could have elevated the flavours further. However, given the affordable price point at a hawker stall, it remains a great value-for-money choice.

Steamed Nai Bai 3/5

For our vegetable dish, we had the Steamed Nai Bai ($6). Much like the fish, it was prepared simply — topped with fried shallots and soy sauce before being steamed. While fresh and light, the dish could have benefited from a more pungent seasoning or additional garnishes for extra depth.

Thai Chilli Sotong 4/5

A standout dish was the Thai Chilli Sotong ($12). The squid was steamed to a tender, bouncy texture, retaining its natural juiciness. It was then dressed in a sweet, spicy, and tangy Thai chilli sauce, which added a delightful kick, making the dish both appetising and refreshing.

With its affordable pricing and fuss-free cooking, Hee Hee Hee Steamed Fish & Seafood is a great spot for a quick and satisfying seafood meal in the heartlands.


Hee Hee Hee Steamed Fish & Seafood (喜喜蒸鱼海鲜)
Blk 431 Clementi Ave 3
Singapore 120431
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Nearest MRT: Clementi (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
Tue-Sun: 11am - 9pm
(Closed on Mon)

Direction:
1) Alight at Clementi MRT station. Take Exit A. Walk to Clementi Mall. Cut through the mall to the other end of the mall (beside Uniqlo). Exit the mall. Turn right and walk to traffic light junction. Cross the road and turn left. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Red House Seafood @ Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel - CNY 2025 Menus and New Dishes

Celebrate this Lunar New Year at Red House Seafood at Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore with their specially curated CNY Set Menus and exciting new dishes.

Prosperity Abalone and Coral Seaweed Yu Sheng 4/5

The Prosperity Abalone and Coral Seaweed Yu Sheng is a perennial favourite among regulars. It is loved for its unique crunch, which comes from the addition of coral seaweed, adding a refreshing twist to this classic dish.

Jackfruit Salad 5/5

To start, we indulged in a delightful array of new side dishes. The Jackfruit Salad stood out with its vibrant citrusy flavours, beautifully balanced by the tangy Buah Kedongdong Sauce.

Salted Egg Tempeh 4/5

Crispy Baby Squid 4/5

Both the Salted Egg Tempeh and Crispy Baby Squid offered savoury, addictive bites.

Grilled Marinated Squid 4/5

Meanwhile, the Grilled Marinated Squid impressed with its tender texture and subtle smokiness from the grill that elevated its flavour.

Steamed Giant Grouper Tail with Bentong Ginger 4.5/5

A signature highlight is the Steamed Giant Grouper Tail with Bentong Ginger, a speciality of Red House Seafood. The restaurant uniquely offers different cuts of the giant grouper, akin to steak cuts. This particular dish featured tender, firm meat with a gelatinous skin. The bentong ginger, known for its extra punchy aroma, beautifully complemented the robust flavours of the fish.

Lemongrass and Jasmine Tea Smoked Chicken 5/5

Another standout was the Lemongrass and Jasmine Tea Smoked Chicken. The meat was tender, offering a flavour profile reminiscent of sweet soy sauce chicken but elevated by the subtle, aromatic notes of lemongrass and jasmine.

Braised Sea Cucumber with Shiitake Mushroom and Duo Cauliflower 4/5

Braised Sea Cucumber with Shiitake Mushroom and Duo Cauliflower was more aesthetically pleasing than usual. The use of Yellow and Purple Cauliflower added a pop of colour to the dish. The sauce had a savoury depth of flavour that aptly complemented the braised sea cucumber.

Glutinous Rice Chicken Roll with Quinoa and Wax Meat 4.5/5

The Glutinous Rice Chicken Roll with Quinoa and Wax Meat showcased the culinary team's expertise. The chicken was skillfully processed into a paste to encase a flavourful mixture of glutinous rice, quinoa, and wax meat, then shaped into an elegant roulade with the chicken's skin. The incorporation of quinoa lightened the dish while making it more nutritious, a thoughtful twist on the traditional version.

Signature Chilli Crab 4.5/5

No visit would be complete without the Signature Chilli Crab, served with adorable crab-shaped mantou. The sauce struck the perfect balance of sweet and mildly spicy flavours, while the mantou was golden crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside — ideal for soaking up every last bit of the sauce.

Crispy Bubur Cha Cha 4.5/5

Purple Glutinous Rice Cake 4.5/5

For desserts, the Crispy Bubur Cha Cha offered a creative and delightful spin on the traditional dish. The crispy sweet potato strips provided an enjoyable crunch, complementing the soft sweet potato cubes and the creamy yam coconut base. The Purple Glutinous Rice Cake was another highlight, offering a healthier and aromatic take on traditional Nian Gao. The earthy flavour of the purple glutinous rice and the fragrant shredded coconut boosted an additional texture and aroma to the festive treat.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Red House Seafood
Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore
392 Havelock Road
Level 2
Singapore 169663
Tel: +65 67357666
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Nearest MRT:

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 4. Turn left and walk to traffic junction of Havelock Road and Kim Seng Road. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Kim Seng Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Siong Tong Gai @ 313 Somerset - CNY Super Value Set

Siong Tong Gai, a seafood restaurant celebrated for its fresh steamed fish in superior broth, has opened its first Singapore outlet at 313@Somerset. Originally founded in Malaysia in 2008, Siong Tong Gai brings its signature flavours and dishes to local diners just in time for the Chinese New Year, offering a Super Value Chinese New Year Set Menu designed to bring festive cheer.

Prosperity Lao Sang with Jellyfish 3.5/5

Sea Bass Steamed Fish 4.2/5

The set began with a Prosperity Lao Sang with Jellyfish ($38.80), which whetted our appetites with its delightful textural play and refreshing flavours. Following this is the restaurant's signature Sea Bass Steamed Fish, featuring a perfectly moist and flaky fish enhanced by a garlicky broth that amplifies its natural sweetness.

Signature Braised Crab with Cucumber 4/5

Siong Tong Gai introduces diners in Singapore to the top 8 KL zichar crab flavours, a highlight of their menu. Among these, we tried the Signature Braised Crab with Cucumber ($63.80), a unique offering not commonly seen locally. The dish features a light and savoury broth accented by dried shrimps, enhancing the fresh crab's sweetness.

Salted Egg Yolk Prawns 3.5/5

The top 8 KL zichar flavours can also be applied to other seafood options such as fish, prawns, clams, and squid (sotong). For our prawn dish, we chose the Salted Egg Yolk Prawns. While the prawns were slightly dry, the salted egg yolk coating was flavourful and not overly rich, striking a balanced taste.

Three Treasure Vegetables 3.5/5

Sweet & Sour Pork 3/5

From the à la carte menu, we also tried the Sweet & Sour Pork and Three Treasure Vegetables. The pork offered a crisp texture with a delectable glaze, though a slightly meatier bite would have been preferred. The vegetables featured stir-fried pea shoots paired with shimeji mushrooms, all elevated by a sprinkle of fried garlic bits. While the dish was well-executed, a touch more wok hei could have further enhanced its depth of flavour.

From 21 January to 12 February, enjoy the Siong Tong Gai CNY Super Value Set consisting of Fish, Prawn (choice of flavour) and Crabs (choice of flavour) + 4 bowls of rice and 4 cups of Chinese tea ($198++ UP $242.40). Not available on CNY Eve

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


Siong Tong Gai
313@somerset
313 Orchard Road
#B3-02/03/04/05/06
Singapore 238895
Tel: +65 69081393
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 11am - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Yu Cun Curry Fish Head (渔村砂煲咖喱鱼头) @ Sultan Gate - Enticing Lunar New Year Menu Alongside Its Signature Curry Fish Head

After nearly a decade since my first visit to Yu Cun Curry Fish Head's (渔村砂煲咖喱鱼头) inaugural outlet at Upper Paya Lebar in 2015, I decided to explore its second outlet at Sultan Gate. With Chinese New Year just around the corner, Yu Cun has rolled out an enticing festive menu alongside its signature dishes that continue to attract fans. Here's a detailed look at my dining experience.

Yu Cun Prosperity Yu Sheng 3/5

No Chinese New Year celebration is complete without tossing Yu Sheng for abundance and prosperity. Yu Cun's Prosperity Yu Sheng ($55++) is a vibrant dish, but compared to other Yu Sheng offerings in the market, it lacked a wow factor in terms of taste and textural interplay. While the flavours are enjoyable, I found them more ordinary than memorable.

Braised Chicken Soup with Creamy Red Lotus 4.2/5

The Braised Chicken Soup with Creamy Red Lotus ($78++) is a comforting, hearty dish packed with rich flavours, perfect for rainy, chilly weather. The broth, brimming with chicken, red lotus, and white fungus, showcases depth and warmth, making it a standout in their menu.

Prosperity Eight Treasure Duck 4.5/5

The Prosperity Eight Treasure Duck ($98++) is a delightful surprise and an absolute highlight of the meal. The tender, well-braised duck is stuffed with fragrant glutinous rice, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavours. This dish exudes festive indulgence and is a must-try for anyone looking for something special on the menu.

Pen Cai 4.2/5

The Pen Cai ($298++) is a decadent celebration pot filled with premium ingredients such as 10-head abalone, prawns, fish maw, dried scallops, sea cucumber, roasted meats, and vegetables like cabbage and broccoli. The generous portions and luxurious ingredients make it a festive centrepiece. As an added bonus, you can enjoy a 15% discount on the Pen Cai with any purchase of Yu Cun's CNY package.

Steamed Red Grouper in Golden Broth 3.8/5

Fish is an auspicious symbol of abundance during Chinese New Year, and Yu Cun's Steamed Red Grouper in Golden Broth ($118++) is well-executed. The delicate grouper fillets, sandwiched with ham and carrot, are tender and flavorful. While the ham adds richness, the overall dish is satisfying but not groundbreaking.

Bonito Flake Pork Ribs 4/5

The Bonito Flake Pork Ribs ($78++) are fork-tender and marinated in a luscious, sweet sauce. While the addition of bonito flakes adds visual appeal, they don't significantly elevate the flavour profile. That said, the ribs themselves are delicious and worth trying.

Lobster Combinations 3.8/5

The Lobster Combinations ($218++) offers lobster cooked in two styles. The first is deep-fried lobster meat in a sweet orange sauce, while the second is paired with a tangy, spicy Thai-style salad. While the contrasting flavours are enjoyable, the dish felt slightly predictable and lacked the wow factor compared to other seafood options on the menu.

Claypot Curry Fish Head 4.8/5

The star of the show is undoubtedly Yu Cun's Claypot Curry Fish Head. Revisiting this signature dish after almost a decade, I was pleasantly surprised by the improvement in flavour. The curry is now richer, creamier, and more lemak than I remembered. The dish is loaded with fresh vegetables like long beans, lady's fingers, and tau kee, making it a hearty and satisfying offering. It's clear that Yu Cun has refined its recipe over the years, and this dish alone is worth the visit.

Yu Cun Curry Fish Head continues to be a go-to spot for hearty, comforting Chinese cuisine, especially during the festive season. While some dishes on the CNY menu could use a touch more creativity, signature items like the Claypot Curry Fish Head and Prosperity Eight Treasure Duck shine brightly. Whether planning a celebratory feast with family or revisiting old favourites, Yu Cun's offerings will surely make your meal memorable.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Yu Cun Curry Fish Head (渔村砂煲咖喱鱼头)
29/31 Sultan Gate
Singapore 198477
Tel: +65 6038 0391
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Nearest MRT: Nicoll Highway (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Nicoll Highway MRT station. Take Exit A. Take the overhead bridge to the end. Walk along Beach Road towards Sultan Gate road. Turn right onto Sultan Gate road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

The Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, A Wyndham Hotel - Bringing Joy and Prosperity with a Curated Festive Menus

For this Chinese New Year, The Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, a Wyndham Hotel, has curated festive lunch and dinner menu sets available from 8 January to 12 February 2025. The selection features signature dishes crafted to bring joy and prosperity to your table.

"Everlasting Prosperity" Yu Sheng 4/5

We began with the "Everlasting Prosperity" Yu Sheng with Smoked Salmon and Crispy Fish Skin, a refreshing dish enhanced by subtle kaffir lime leaves and a delightful crunch from the crispy fish skin.

Fish Maw Soup 4/5

The next course, Fish Maw Soup with Crab Meat and Conpoy was flavorful and well-balanced, boasting just the right consistency.

Steamed Ginseng Chicken 5/5

One of the standout dishes was the Steamed Ginseng Chicken. The chicken was incredibly tender, and the nourishing ginseng broth was both comforting and aromatic.

Baked Prawns with Buttermilk & Pumpkin Purée 4/5

The Baked Prawns with Buttermilk & Pumpkin Purée are allured by their vibrant colours and garlicky aroma. While the prawns were slightly overcooked, the creamy and tangy buttermilk-pumpkin sauce elevated their texture, making them finger-licking good.

Steamed Marble Goby with Superior Soya Sauce 4.5/5

Braised Abalone with Chinese Mushroom & Broccoli 4/5

Two classic dishes followed: Steamed Marble Goby with Superior Soya Sauce and Braised Abalone with Chinese Mushrooms and Broccoli. The fish had a pleasingly firm texture, its natural sweetness beautifully complemented by the savoury soya sauce. The abalone dish was also well-executed, providing a rich and elegant touch.

Fried Fragrant Rice Wrapped in Lotus Leaf 5/5

My favourite was the Fried Fragrant Rice Wrapped in Lotus Leaf — arguably the most memorable lotus leaf rice I've had. The umami-packed sausages appeared to have their casing removed, making them easy to chew and mix seamlessly with the rice. Each bite delivered a symphony of savoury, smoky, and umami flavours.

Chilled Mango Cream 4/5

Dessert was a refreshing Chilled Mango Cream with Aloe Vera, Strawberry, and Pearl Sago. Its sweet and tangy profile rounded off the meal perfectly.

Prosperity Menus (Available from 8th January to 12th February 2025):
From $688++ per table (For 6 persons) to S$1,188++ per table (For 10 persons)
Reunion Dinner Menu (Available only on 28th January 2025) only three signature sets from the Prosperity Menu will be available to celebrate the traditional Reunion Dinner.
Reservations are open from 6th January to 12th February 2025. Please contact 6416 1231

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


The Peninsula Excelsior Singapore, A Wyndham Hotel
Peninsula Shopping Complex Singapore
5 Coleman Street
Singapore 179805
Tel: 6337 2200
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Nearest MRT: City Hall (EW Line)

Direction:
1) Alight at City Hall MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn left and walk down North Bridge Road. Walk to traffic junction of North Bridge Road and Coleman Street. Cross the road and turn right onto Coleman Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]